The district administration has stepped in to resolve issues surrounding land acquisition for the proposed cloverleaf interchange connecting the Vizhinjam International Seaport approach road with National Highway 66 at Thalakode, following protests by local residents during a recent survey and land demarcation exercise.
District Collector K S Anju said a meeting involving all stakeholders would be convened shortly to address the concerns and facilitate the resumption of survey proceedings.
The survey was suspended in the affected area following protests by residents who sought clarity on the project and the proposed land acquisition. However, the land acquisition process has not been formally halted.
The proposed meeting is expected to bring together representatives of the protesting residents, local MLA M Vincent, officials of Vizhinjam International Seaport Ltd (VISL), revenue department officials and other stakeholders to discuss the concerns and work towards a resolution.
The proposed four-loop cloverleaf interchange is a key component of Vizhinjam port’s long-term road connectivity network. It is designed to connect the port approach road with NH 66, enabling smoother movement of container trucks and other cargo vehicles while improving traffic flow at the junction.
The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has agreed to the proposal, with VISL and NHAI expected to construct two loops each. The cost-sharing arrangement for the project has also been worked out.
With Vizhinjam port having commenced commercial operations and container and EXIM cargo movements gathering momentum, the proposed interchange is considered essential to accommodate the anticipated growth in traffic.
The port currently relies on a temporary road connection to NH 66. As cargo volumes increase, the existing arrangement could become inadequate, raising concerns over congestion and delays in cargo evacuation.
The permanent interchange is expected to strengthen road connectivity, improve the movement of freight vehicles and support the port’s expanding operations. Resolving the land acquisition concerns will be an important step towards advancing the project.